How Many Chiranjeevis Are There in Hindu Mythology?

The concept of 7 Chiranjeevi is very fascinating. While many people believe immortality is a curse, some people got this immortality with a purpose. According to Hindu mythology, there are some legendary heroes who never died. It is believed that they still exist and appear at the end of Kaliyuga. 

In Hindu scriptures, seven people who are warriors, sages, and kings were granted Chiranjivitva. They are immortals who were blessed (or cursed) to survive until the end of Kaliyuga. Their purpose is to protect dharma and guide future generations as well.

Here, let’s know how many Chiranjeevi are there in Hindu mythology and what’s their purpose.

Who Are the 7 Chiranjeevi? The Seven Immortals in Hindu mythology & One More to Know

Hindu mythology describes 7 Chiranjeevis. But some traditions also add an eighth. Each Chiranjeevis has a unique story, a reason for their immortality, and a role in the cosmic order. Consider this a continuation of the epic saga.

1. Ashwatthama

Ashwatthama is the son of Guru Dronacharya. The mighty guru of the Pandavas and Kauravas from the epic Mahabharat. Ashwatthama fought in the Kurukshetra war from Kauravas’ side. In a final act of revenge, he attacked Uttara’s with Brahmastra, to kill Uttara’s unborn child (Parikshit). Krishna, enraged, cursed him to wander the Earth forever with his immortality.

Why was he immortal?

His immortality can be classified as a punishment, not a blessing. He was doomed to live forever with his wounds open and his powers gone. Many believe Ashwatthama roams the forests of India, leaving trails behind. People report seeing him in temples and jungles of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat every now and then.

2. King Mahabali

Once upon a time, a wise and generous Asura king Mahabali enjoyed the spotlight. He was brave, and smart enough to replace Lord Indra as well. Threatened by his aura, Lord Vishnu, took his Vamana avatar, tricked Mahabali into giving up his kingdom. He was sent to the netherworld but granted a boon of immortality. He could return to Earth once a year.

Why was he immortal?

Mahabali’s devotion earned him the right to visit his people once in a year. It is believed that he came on earth during the Onam festival in Kerala. The demon king was very powerful but humble enough to give away all the luxury and even himself as charity. 

3. Ved Vyas

Ved Vyas is the great sage and writer who wrote the epic Mahabharata. He divided the Vedas for people as well. He wasn’t just a writer but also a character in the Mahabharata. He plays the key role in the epic he wrote guiding the Kuru dynasty. 

Why was he immortal?

He was immortal to preserve and pass down Hindu wisdom through generations. He is on earth to make sure people follow the path of Dharma. 

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4. Hanuman

Lord Hanuman is a mighty Vanara. He is the greatest devotee of Lord Rama. Hanuman helped Lord Ram defeat Ravan and rescue Sita. After Ram’s departure, Hanuman vowed to stay on Earth as long as Ram’s name was spoken. He blesses every soul in the world who is a Ram’s devotee.

Why was he immortal?

Lord Hanuman was blessed with eternal life and wisdom. Many believe Hanuman still protects temples and appears to true devotees in times of need. People often worship Lord Hanuman to learn devotion.

5. Vibhishana

Vibhishana is Ravan’s brother, who supported Lord Ram against Ravana in the war. He advised Ravana to surrender and return Lord Rama’s wife. But his advice was ignored by Ravan. After Ravan’s death, Ram crowned him King of Lanka.

Why was he immortal?

He got the boon to live on Earth forever to guide future rulers in dharma (righteousness). Some believe Vibhishana rules a mystical version of Lanka, hidden from human eyes. If it’s true, that version of Lanka must be futuristic. 

6. Kripacharya

Kripacharya is the guru of the Pandavas and Kauravas. He was the sage warrior who survived the Kurukshetra war. He continued teaching the next generations.

Why was he immortal?

The sage got the boon of immortality to ensure that knowledge and wisdom never die on the earth.

7. Parashurama: The Warrior Sage Who Awaits Kalki

Lord Parashurama is another mighty avatar of Lord Vishnu. He is often represented as a sage in rage carrying his battle axe. Unlike other Vishnu avatars, Parashurama never left Earth. For instance, he existed at the same time when Lord Ram and Lord Krishna existed. Lord Ram and Lord Krishna were also considered the avatars of Lord Vishnu. He continues to meditate in the Mahendragiri mountains, waiting for Lord Kalki, the final avatar of Vishnu.

Why was he immortal?

Lord Parashuram will train Kalki in warfare for the final battle of Kaliyuga. 

(+1) Markandeya: The Child Sage Who Defeated Death

Some religious hindu text mentions another person who got the boon of immortality. The mighty Makrandeya Ji was a child sage who was destined to die young. However, he worshiped Lord Shiva to get away from death. 

When Yama, the god of death, came for him, Shiva granted him eternal life. It is believed that he still exists on Earth. 

Are 7 Chiranjeevi Still Alive? Myths vs. Reality

The on-going debate about the existence of Chiranjeevi is fascinating. However, let’s discuss some points to get some clarity about its reality. 

Ancient Texts Say They Exist – Hindu scriptures suggest that Chiranjeevis are alive and they live in hidden places, watching over humanity. They don’t interfere as they are waiting for the right time. 

Sightings & Legends – Many people claim to have seen Ashwatthama, felt Hanuman’s presence, or heard stories of Parashurama meditating. This might come from the beliefs, but stories of bigfoot and monkey man are pretty popular in pop culture these days. 

Symbolic or Literal? – Scholars believe Chiranjeevis might not be physical beings at all but symbols of eternal values. This is a valid explanation as all the characters are there in the text to teach us valuable lessons. 

What Can We Learn from the 7 Chiranjeevi?

Talking about valuable lessons, each Chiranjeevi represents a powerful lesson that we mentioned below:

The Chiranjeevis are symbols of wisdom, devotion, and karma. Do they still walk among us? Are they watching from hidden realms? That remains a mystery. What do you think? Share your thoughts below.

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FAQs:

Q1. How many immortals live among us?

Ans. According to Hindu mythology, there are 7 immortals who still live on Earth. Gods blessed them or cursed them to never die. They walk the earth, unseen by most of the people.

Q2. Who are the seven immortals?

Ans. The names of seven immortals are Ashwatthama, Mahabali, Vyasa, Hanuman, Vibhishana, Kripacharya, and Parashurama. Their stories live on, just as they do.

Q3. Where is Kripacharya now?

Ans. Some say Kripacharya stays in the Himalayas, deep in meditation. He will rise again as a great sage.

Q4. Who will help Kalki?

Ans. When the final avatar of Lord Vishnu comes, these seven immortals will stand beside him. They will fight for truth and restore Dharma.